Variety: The Spice of Life
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We've covered some basic elements of sentence structure over the past few months. This month I'd like to discuss your writing as a whole. How can it be improved? What can you do to make it more readable? Adding variety could be just what you need.

Word Length

Unless you're writing a child's beginning reader, you don't want to write with all one-syllable words. Along the same lines, you don't want a large, technical vocabulary unless you're writing a technical manual.

Find a sample article from the magazine you wish to write for, or a book similar to the one you wish to write. Check for contractions, multi-syllable words, and the reading level. Does your writing style match, or would you be writing over the heads of the audience you're trying to reach? Do you write with too much simplicity to keep your readers engaged?

For practice, try rewriting these sentences—at a lower reading level—without losing meaning:

Why is it when individuals paint themselves green and gold, sit in single digit temperatures (watching 22 men in tights running around with a piece of animal skin while being shepherded by five or six men dressed like zebras), and scream until they're unable to speak that they are called "fans" or "dedicated followers?" And why is it when people speak of eternal issues, of things that really matter, they are called "fanatics?"

How is your prayer life? I asked that question of some women online one day and received different answers. Many were fine with their early morning or late night quiet times, but a few admitted to not having a set time.

A rainbow appeared while I walked the dog.
While walking the dog, I saw a rainbow.